Muslims in the House: October 2 - 6

by The Canadian-Muslim Vote253scon October 11, 2017

Attack in EdmontonThe Leader of the Opposition, Andrew Scheer (Regina—Qu’Appelle), asked what is currently being done in wake of the attack in Edmonton. Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Ralph Goodale (Regina—Wasacana), stated that the collaborative investigation between the RCMP and Edmonton Police is ongoing. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau (Papineau) urged Canadians not to let this horrific incident divide us. Meanwhile, MP Kerry Diote (Edmonton Griesbach) praised the City of Edmonton and their first responders for their resilience and effort. MP Diote went on to assert that Canada’s strength is that everyone has the right to live and worship as they please and we cannot lose sight of that in light of the cowardly act of terror.

Bill C-6MP Iqra Khalid (Mississauga – Erin Mills) asked what the government is going to do ensure fairness for all Canadians, regardless of whether they were born in Canada or not. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau brought to attention that Bill C-6 will come into force on October 11, 2017. Bill C-6 will repeal the two-tiered citizenship provisions created under the previous government. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau affirmed that diversity is Canada’s strength and that a large part of successful integration into Canadian life is gaining Canadian citizenship. MP Kamal Khera (Brampton West) believes that Bill C-6 will help residents of Brampton West and Canadians across the country reunite with their families and contribute to society.

Omar KhadrMP Kevin Waugh (Saskatoon—Grasswood) criticized the government for their $10.5 million settlement payout made to Omar Khadr. MP Alex Nuttal (Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte) claimed that the government’s claim of not wanting to waste taxpayer dollars on legal fees for the Khadr is inconsistent with the fact that the government spent $110,000 in legal fees to fight an Indigenous girl requiring a $6,000 dental procedure to ease her chronic pain.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to the criticisms on two fronts. First, he claimed the government made a calculated decision with the settlement since the liability could have risen to $40 million and the government did not feel that was right. Furthermore, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau asserted that when the government infringes on any Canadian’s rights and freedoms, the entire country has to pay and hopes that this settlement and the outrage surrounding the settlement helps ensure that future governments do not abuse their power.

Next, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau stated that the new Department of Indigenous Services will work on improving all programs and services relating to Indigenous Affairs.